Chapter 55 Bustle

The next day. 

"What are you thinking? Let's go." The Third Prince pulled the little mermaid, who was absentmindedly pondering something, and strode towards the luxurious carriage surrounded by the guard outside the palace. 

"Your Highnesses." The armored guards, wielding long swords, nodded respectfully as they watched the two ascend into the carriage before efficiently returning to their formation. 

The carriage began to move slowly. 

"First, have something to eat; it will be quite busy once we arrive." The Third Prince, being experienced, pushed a platter of pastries towards Lu, who had missed the palace breakfast due to her late rising. 

Lu blinked her azure eyes and tilted her head in confusion, "But Grandmother said the Sea Festival is just for fun, and there's no need to be too formal." 

Could it be that the sea creatures and demons they were about to meet would actually make things difficult for her? 

After all, the guards were present, and even the eldest brother had mentioned that the little demons were merely there to enjoy the festivities. 

The Third Prince paused, suddenly recalling the dread he had felt over the years while being at the mercy of numerous little demons. 

"...You'll understand when the time comes." 

He had once received an overwhelming number of gifts, including the token fragrant sachets, enough to fill half a room. 

Being buried beneath a pile of cosmetics and perfumes was hardly a pleasant experience. 

If it weren't for accompanying Little Lu this year, he would have done anything to avoid coming. 

However, since it was Little Lu's year... The Third Prince glanced uncertainly at Lu, who was blissfully unaware as she nibbled on her pastry, frowning slightly. 

He hoped not to frighten her. 

Those little demons meant no harm; at worst, they would just create a ruckus and eventually move on. 

Yet, the dragon certainly appeared possessive; he should... not cause any trouble, right? 

"Still keeping me in suspense?" Lu didn't even glance back. "I won't fall for your tricks." 

Her brother was undoubtedly just trying to amuse himself at her expense. 

The Third Prince was momentarily taken aback, casting her a sidelong glance, and after a prolonged pause, he replied, "Suit yourself." 

Good intentions turned into a wild goose chase! 

Lu paused her snacking, surprised, and turned to her brother, about to speak when the carriage suddenly came to a halt. 

A commotion erupted outside. 

"What's going on?" The Third Prince's brow furrowed instantly, his expression turning serious. 

"Your Highness, the passage ahead has been blocked by sea demons; it seems there is a conflict between two factions. The guard is currently attempting to clear the way. Please, wait a moment." 

Lu contemplated this for a moment, then raised her hand to open the window on her side, her curious blue eyes peering out— 

As the outside merfolk had mentioned, a large gathering of sea creatures and demons had formed not far ahead, some in human form, others in their true shapes, creating a wall of bodies that obstructed their path. 

Some little demons floating on the outskirts, unable to see what was happening, clustered together, peering in to catch a glimpse of the action. 

Whispers filled the air, though the words were too indistinct to decipher. 

However, a few of the little demons noticed them and brightened, immediately waving their tails and hiding behind the coral to observe the carriage and the merfolk guards. 

"Wow, it's a mermaid~" 

"They're just as beautiful as the legends say~~" 

"Thinking about it, even if we can't get in there, just seeing a mermaid isn't too shabby~" 

Moreover, they had been waiting here early, eager to catch a glimpse of this year's Sea Festival guests. If they hadn't been so eager for the spectacle, they wouldn't have missed when the mermaids arrived— 

But it seemed they had just arrived, so they likely wouldn't be leaving anytime soon~ 

"...What exactly is happening?" Lu glanced at the excited sea demons, her expression stiff as she locked eyes with a nearby merfolk guard. 

The guard bowed respectfully, "We have sent someone to investigate, but there are no updates yet." 

"...Thank you for your hard work." 

Lu nodded in understanding, retracting her head and turning to the pensive Third Prince, puzzled. "Aren't we going to take a detour?" 

She noticed that there was still a path available and saw no reason to be stuck on a single road. However, seeing that the merfolk guards were already busy, she chose not to voice her thoughts. 

Otherwise, judging by the current situation, they would surely arrive late. 

The Third Prince shook his head, "We are bound to this main road; we cannot take a detour."

This is the customary practice of the Four Seas Festival, merely seeking auspicious meanings. 

Although it is not a rigid rule that must be adhered to, there is no need for haste; waiting a little while longer is of no consequence. 

Before long, the person sent to investigate returned, their expression inscrutable. "...It is Young Master Jack." 

"...What did you say?" Lu was taken aback and then puzzled, "What is he doing here?" 

Shouldn't he be acting in concert with the Clan Jack? 

"It appears he has been waylaid by the sea maidens expressing their affections. In the midst of the scuffle, one woman attempted to throw herself at him and is now on the ground, weeping and clinging to Young Master Jack, refusing to let him leave." 

Lu: ... 

The third prince raised an eyebrow, "He has his day of reckoning." 

What could be more pressing? If this is the case, there is no need to rush. 

"Little Lu, do you wish to go and see?" The third prince stroked his chin thoughtfully. 

Though it was unclear why the usually decisive Jack had suddenly changed demeanor and become entangled with a minor sea spirit... observing the commotion would pose no harm.